Public Meetings - Elkgrove, California

The City Council held a special meeting on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 5:30 PM at Elk Grove City Hall. The meeting consisted solely of a closed session to discuss two real property negotiation items. Following the closed session, the council reconvened in open session and reported no reportable actions, then adjourned. Closed Session - The Council met in closed session pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8 to confer with real property negotiators on two items: 1. Property at 10592 Franklin Boulevard (APN 132-0262-013) – Negotiations with Ronald R. Hampton and Sandra Y. F. Hampton regarding price and terms. 2. Vacant 0.98-acre parcel at the northeast corner of East Stockton Boulevard and Survey Road (APN 134-0510-038) – Negotiations with Maria Beaman, Successor Trustee of The Dennis Beaman Separate Property Trust, regarding price and terms. Key Outcomes - No reportable actions were announced from the closed session. - The special meeting was adjourned at 6:01 PM.

The Elk Grove City Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, starting at 6:01 PM and adjourning at 8:32 PM. The meeting included proclamations, annual reports, a public hearing, and several policy items. Councilmembers present: Mayor Singh-Allen, Vice Mayor Suen, Councilmembers Robles, Spees, and Brewer. Proclamations & Presentations The council issued three proclamations and received three annual reports: - Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (May 2026): Recognized by proclamation the contributions of Cynthia Ong Lam and Jonathan Lam (Pegasus Bakery and Cafe) and Monica Patel (Bimo Bank, Vice President; Fijian community leader). Monica Patel highlighted the newly formed Fijian Association of Sacramento Region (FASAR). - Food Waste Awareness Month (May 2026): Presented to Marie Mertz. She reported recovering nearly 12,000 pounds of food in five months via a pilot program, feeding 200–400 people three times a week. Over 12 years, her kitchen has saved 115,000 pounds of food from waste. - National Public Works Week (May 17–23, 2026): Recognized by proclamation; Public Works Director Jeff Warner praised the council’s prioritization of infrastructure and announced a “Big Truck Day” event on May 20. - Mosquito & Vector Control District Annual Update: Steve Ramos reported that in 2025, Elk Grove had positive West Nile virus mosquito samples and dead birds. Statewide, 113 human cases were reported in 2025 (down from over 400 in 2023). Invasive Aedes mosquitoes are established; a sterile insect technique pilot in South Natomas showed promising population reduction. - Trails Committee Annual Report: Chair Mark Mendenhall presented a 25-year anniversary report. Key accomplishments: Ryland Trail extension, Laguna Springs Drive restriping, Laguna Creek Trail resurfacing, and progress on a trail overcrossing of State Route 99 (shovel-ready for 2026). The committee recommended a connected network using low-stress streets. - Youth Commission Semi-Annual Update: Chair Abbas Chaudry and Vice Chair Cara Hughes reported on events: mental wellness workshop, college/career readiness, family fun day, and a food drive. Three graduating seniors were recognized: Abbas Chaudry (UC Merced), Cara Hughes (Seton Hall), and Andres (UC Santa Barbara). Three vacancies to be appointed. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar (routine approvals) was approved unanimously by a voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Anthony Robertson and Pluchette Robertson (Soul Project): Urged the council to strengthen smoke-free housing protections, noting Elk Grove received an “F” grade from the American Lung Association for smoke-free housing. They requested meetings with council members. - Mark Doty (Trails Committee): Praised staff and the trails committee; encouraged biking to the Luke Bryan concert (May 16) with city-provided bike parking. Recognized outgoing city manager Cara Redig. - Lynn Wee: Advocated for bike racks in retail centers and using Measure E funds for trails. Praised the trails committee’s persistence. - Mark Graham: Requested the council oppose HR 2289 (telecommunications bill) and use non-toxic materials for the new library. He also asked for clarification on three-minute speaker limits per agenda item (later addressed by staff). Public Hearing: CDBG/HOME Action Plan 2026-27 - Staff presented the action plan, which was released for a 30-day comment period with no comments received. The council unanimously adopted the resolution approving the plan. Discussion Item: ACCESS Incentive Program (Accessibility Compliance) - Staff (Mel Lasher and Jim Ramsey) presented a new matching reimbursement grant program (up to $10,000 per business) to help small businesses comply with ADA accessibility requirements. Funding comes from a $4 fee on business licenses; current fund balance over $96,000, growing $10,000 annually. Eligible businesses: fewer than 20 employees, under $3M revenue, in good standing. Requires a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) report. Council expressed strong support. Vote: unanimous approval. Discussion Item: Community Sentinel & BRICS Camera Programs - Staff (Mel Lasher and Andrea Cortez) presented the Community Sentinel program (live exterior camera feeds shared with police real-time information center) and the BRICS reimbursement grant (up to $5,000 per business for cameras, 50% cost share). Both programs aim to deter retail theft (shoplifting up 6% in 2024-25) and enhance public safety. Cameras are not actively monitored; only accessed during incidents. Program is a pilot with $75,000 in initial funding. Council asked about HOA inclusion and rolling applications. Vote: unanimous approval to adopt both programs. Discussion Item: SB 707 Remote Comment Regulations - City Clerk Jason Lindgren explained new state requirements (effective July 1, 2026) mandating remote public comment options for eligible legislative bodies. Elk Grove will implement a two-way telephonic service (via Zoom) with live webcasting, starting with the City Council only. Two resolutions were adopted: (1) a disruption of service policy (for broadcast interruption) and (2) an update to the rules of procedure to prioritize in-person speakers before remote speakers. Staff clarified that the three-minute speaker limit applies per agenda item, not per meeting. Vote: unanimous approval with direction to clarify the three-minute rule in the policy. Key Outcomes - Unanimous votes on all action items: consent calendar, CDBG/HOME action plan, ACCESS program, Community Sentinel and BRICS programs, and SB 707 implementing resolutions. - Direction to staff: Clarify in written policy that the three-minute speaker limit is per agenda item (including for remote commenters). - Council discussion: Vice Mayor Suen asked staff to bring back a comprehensive bike network map (based on Trails Committee presentation) as part of a future CIP discussion. - Memorial: The meeting adjourned in memory of Janet Hume, mother of Supervisor Pat Hume.

The Elk Grove Planning Commission held a regular meeting on May 7, 2026, beginning at 6:00 PM. The meeting included a land acknowledgment, approval of the agenda and consent calendar, a public hearing for a conditional use permit for the Old Town Courtyard event space, a presentation and public hearing on the Climate Compass climate action plan update, and the reorganization of the commission's leadership. The director also provided an update on recent and upcoming projects. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes of January 15, 2026: Approved by a vote of 3–0–1 (one abstention). Public Comments & Testimony - Old Town Courtyard: Monica Tucker, filling in for the applicant Lynette Wall, spoke in support of the conditional use permit. She described the venue as an intimate space for community gatherings, weddings, birthdays, and wellness activities, and expressed pride in the business’s contribution to Elk Grove. - Climate Compass: Eugene Lee, representing the Sacramento Environmental Commission and a former city climate ambassador, spoke in support of the Climate Compass. He emphasized the importance of measuring progress and urged the commission to use the plan as a guiding document. Discussion Items Old Town Courtyard (PLNG 25-043) – Conditional Use Permit - Associate Planner Joseph Dowgaman presented the project: a request for a conditional use permit to operate an existing 1,150-square-foot building and adjacent courtyard as an assembly use for events (weddings, birthday parties, meetings) for up to 60 guests. The site is at 9120 Elk Grove Boulevard in the Old Town Special Planning Area. The property previously hosted events without permits, leading to a code enforcement complaint in October 2025. Staff recommended approval with conditions including occupancy limits, noise compliance, direction of amplified sound away from residences, and prohibition of certain amplifying equipment. The project is CEQA-exempt under Sections 15301 and 15303. - Several commissioners had questions about history and parking, which were answered. No public speakers besides the applicant proxy. - The commission unanimously approved the conditional use permit and CEQA findings. Climate Compass – Climate Action Plan Update - Long Range Planner Carrie Whitlock presented the Climate Compass, a comprehensive update to the city’s 2019 Climate Action Plan. The document addresses greenhouse gas emission reductions to meet state targets (48% reduction by 2030, carbon neutrality by 2045) and climate adaptation. It covers both community-wide emissions and local government operations. Development took three years with over 60 engagement opportunities. A supplemental environmental impact report (SEIR) was prepared; the final SEIR was released April 24, 2026. Staff also proposed general plan text modifications and corrections to the implementation work program (restoring two housing element actions). - Commissioners asked about urban heat island mitigation (cool pavements, tree canopy, heat-resilient transportation plan) and fleet electrification timeline (pilot program for patrol vehicles, nine EVs already in fleet). - The commission voted 4–0 to adopt a resolution recommending the city council certify the SEIR, adopt the Climate Compass, approve the general plan modifications, and approve the housing program revisions. Reorganization of Planning Commission - Commission members nominated and elected officers for the remainder of 2026. Commissioner Oscar O’Khan was nominated and elected Chair. Commissioner Singh was nominated and elected Vice Chair. Both votes included one abstention each. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved (3–0–1). - Old Town Courtyard Conditional Use Permit: Approved unanimously, with CEQA exemption. - Climate Compass Resolution: Approved 4–0, recommending city council adoption. - Commission Leadership: Oscar O’Khan elected Chair; Commissioner Singh elected Vice Chair. - Director’s Report: Provided updates on approved projects (Bartholomew Winery Amendment, SF Supermarket approval), zoning administrator actions, and future agenda items (mural festival, Sheldon Road rezone, capital improvement program). - Meeting adjourned at 6:40 PM.

The Elk Grove City Council met on April 22, 2026, at 6 p.m. to discuss and act on a variety of items including proclamations, new hires, public comments, consent calendar items, public hearings, and regular agenda items. Notable actions included approval of a land acquisition, adoption of updated animal license fees, endorsement of event sponsorship grants, and acceptance of the Blue Line Bus Rapid Transit Implementation Plan with amendments. Proclamations & Presentations - Proclamation recognizing May 3–9, 2026 as Capital Region Small Business Week. Corky Donnelly of Sheldon Feed & Supply accepted, noting 61 years with the company and praising city programs. - Proclamation declaring April 2026 as Donate Life Month. Sierra Donor Services reported that in 2025 they made 422 organ transplants possible and highlighted over 100,000 Americans on waiting lists. - Proclamation recognizing Arbor Day on April 24, 2026, presented to Cornflower Farms, a local native plant nursery in business since 1981. New Hires & Promotions - Police department introduced multiple new hires and promotions including dispatchers, records techs, officers, and a lieutenant. - Other departments: Grace Kaufman as Sustainability Manager, Ian Scott as Processing Manager, Harold as Homeless Services Navigator, Sarah Rodriguez as Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy Program Manager, and several public works maintenance technicians. Public Comments & Testimony - Multiple speakers (James McCarthy, Paula Schlickelman, Cindy Tabor, Jessica Brown, Suzanne Pesci) expressed frustration with the Cosumnes Community Services District (CCSD) for passing Ordinance 15 which restricts feeding feral cats, and urged the city not to follow suit. They requested clearer rules and cooperation. - Mike Kelly (Kelly Ventures) provided an update on affordable housing projects: Bovis Street apartments at 99% occupancy, Avery Gardens at 99%, and The Lila at 99% occupancy; noted that The Lila is on time and under budget, returning $1.6 million to the city. - Mark Graham spoke against federal bill H.R. 2289 (American Broadband Deployment Act), arguing it would eliminate local control over cell tower siting. He urged the city to oppose the bill. - Suzanne Pesci reported on the Drought Resiliency Task Force, noting DWR is monitoring three selected wells in the South American sub-basin and loaning equipment to well owners. Consent Calendar - Item 7.11 was pulled after Councilmember Brewer recused himself due to a conflict of interest with Core Impact. - Item 7.12 (purchase of 64 acres in Grant Line Business Park for $5.1 million) was pulled for a separate hearing. Staff presented: the land is adjacent to 40 acres the city already owns, and the seller is willing. The public commenter Lynn Wheat expressed concern about transparency; the council approved the purchase. - The remaining items (7.1–7.10, 7.13–7.19) were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Vacancy & Recruitment Report (AB 2561) : Interim HR Director Mary Amissin presented vacancy rates from May 2025 to March 2026. Average vacancy: 7% for Elk Grove Police Officers Association, 1% for Police Managers, 11% for unrepresented staff, overall 6%. The city hired 69 full-time employees and had 40 separations. No bargaining unit exceeded the 20% threshold. Council thanked staff. - Public Convenience or Necessity (PCN) for SF Supermarket : A PCN was requested to allow sale of beer, wine, and distilled spirits at 8539 Elk Grove Blvd. The site is in a high-crime area and the census tract is overconcentrated. Police had no objection. The council approved the PCN unanimously. - Animal License Fee Update : Fees had not been updated since 2013. The proposed changes include adding a two-year license term, modest fee increases, discounts for altered pets and seniors, and promoting spay/neuter. The ordinance and fee schedule were adopted unanimously, effective July 1, 2026. - Annexations to Special Districts : The 60th annexation to Street Maintenance District No. 1 (Zone 3-AW) and 77th annexation to Stormwater Drainage Fee Zone 2 were approved for a residential lot split at 9320 Bradshaw Road. No ballot protests were received. - FY 2026–27 Event Sponsorship Grant Program : Staff recommended funding 40 events and 10 fundraising dinners. New events include Africa House Community Day, Elmisfa Community Day, and a Lunar New Year Market Fair. Public comment from Shari Wilson (Dreams Unlimited) highlighted the economic impact of Juneteenth. The council supported the recommendations. - Blue Line Bus Rapid Transit Implementation Plan : A two-year study evaluating light rail (LRT) and bus rapid transit (BRT) options along the Bruceville/Bighorn corridor. Alternatives included LRT full alignment (Alternative 2 – highest ridership/cost), BRT full alignment, and mixed options. 70% of survey respondents favored LRT. Staff recommended adoption of the plan with light rail as the preferred solution. Public comments were mixed: supporters cited climate goals, accessibility for students and disabled; opponents questioned cost, ridership, and noted empty buses. Council discussion focused on ensuring regional connectivity and considering emerging technologies. The council voted to accept the resolution (replacing “adopt” with “accept”) and directed staff to continue evaluating other transit technologies and regional integration before any future project approval. Key Outcomes - Proclamations issued for Small Business Week, Donate Life Month, and Arbor Day. - Land purchase (7.12) approved. - PCN for SF supermarket approved. - Animal license fee schedule and ordinance updated. - Annexations to special districts approved. - Event sponsorship grant allocations endorsed. - Blue Line Transit Plan resolution accepted (unanimous 4-0; Councilmember Brewer voted yes after clarification). Staff directed to continue analysis of new technologies and regional connectivity. Council Comments & Reports - Councilmember Brewer: Sacramento Public Library Authority meeting April 23. - Councilmember Spees: attended Cap-to-Cap event. - Councilmember Robles: participated in Cap-to-Cap and Economic Gardening (EGG) committee. - Vice Mayor Suen: attended Cap-to-Cap transportation team, discussed transportation reauthorization with Senate EPW committee. - Mayor Singh Allen was absent (still in Washington D.C.) but sent a statement supporting the light rail plan. The meeting adjourned at 9:16 p.m.

This meeting opened at 6:00 p.m. and adjourned at 7:38 p.m. The council approved the agenda, received several proclamations and awards, heard public comments on housing and the Flock Safety camera contract amendment, approved the consent calendar (including the Flock amendment), adopted an updated development‑fee schedule, and received a report on the city’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts for 2025. Presentations & Proclamations - Autism Acceptance Month – Councilmember Brewer read a proclamation recognizing April 2026 as Autism Acceptance Month and April 2, 2026 as World Autism Awareness Day. Representatives from Gold’s Growth‑Oriented Adapted Learning Skills (GOALS) accepted and spoke about their inclusive bowling program. - American Muslim Appreciation & Awareness Month – Vice Mayor Suen read a proclamation declaring April 2026 as American Muslim Appreciation and Awareness Month in Elk Grove. A member of the Tarbiya Institute accepted, emphasizing the Islamic concept of neighborliness (jira) and the importance of local community strength during global instability. - 75th Anniversary of the Elk Grove Lions Club – Councilmember Spees presented a certificate of recognition. The Lions Club has donated over $2 million and thousands of volunteer hours since 1951, raised nearly $35,000 last year, and contributed 2,400 volunteer hours. - Stars of Service Awards – The mayor announced seven awards: - Residents, Neighborhoods & Community Groups: Yana Schober (over a decade supporting cultural events) - Social & Community Services: Carolyn Bronkowski (30 years of volunteer service, blood donor, suicide hotline) - Arts: JYL Foundation (youth arts, leadership, community service) - Culture & Heritage: Eva Zhu (founder of “California is my home,” cultural events, translation services) - Sports & Recreation: Bianca Solano (soccer coach promoting inclusion) - Service Organizations & Groups: Visions in Motion Adult Day Program (nearly a decade supporting adults with developmental disabilities) - Young Volunteer of the Year: Carly Clark (youth commissioner, service projects) Public Comments & Testimony - Joey Mai – A guest at the Elk Grove Home Shelter, he expressed frustration about delays in being housed at Adam’s Town (the housing manager had been in place for nine weeks but he had not been approved). The city manager’s office (Sarah Bontrager) said they would follow up with him the next day. - Item 7.11 – Flock Safety Contract Amendment – Six speakers (Ellen B., Lindsay Halsell, Rico G., Alison Randall, Jeff Toon, Sydney Poole, and Stefan F.) urged the council to pull the item from the consent calendar and wait for an independent audit by the California Department of Justice before expanding the Flock automated license plate reader (ALPR) system. They cited security vulnerabilities, privacy concerns, and documented sharing of data with federal agencies (including ICE) in other California cities. They argued that a competitive bidding process should be required and that the contract amendment should be delayed until the audit is complete. - The Police Chief responded, stating that Elk Grove has not shared data with federal agencies, uses secure systems, and that the reported breaches (e.g., in Dunwoody, Georgia) involved a different camera type not used in Elk Grove. He emphasized that the technology aids public safety and that the city was voted 1 place to live in California partly because of effective policing tools. Discussion Items - Consent Calendar (including Item 7.11) – After hearing public comments and the chief’s response, councilmembers (Vice Mayor Suen, others) expressed confidence in the police department’s safeguards and the value of the flock system for solving crimes. The City Attorney clarified that the council has discretion to award the contract under the “best interest” exception without a formal competitive process. The consent calendar was approved unanimously (5‑0). - Item 8.1 – Development Fee Schedule Update – Community Development Director Christopher Jordan presented the proposal to align fees with actual costs, move to time‑and‑materials billing for improvement plan review and inspection, and update obsolete fees. The fee schedule had not been comprehensively updated since 2011. No public comments were received. Councilmember Brewer asked about the “at contracted cost” language for on‑site noticing; Jordan clarified it reflects the current contract rate. The resolution adopting the updated fee schedule was approved unanimously. - Item 9.1 – DEI Update (Calendar Year 2025) – Deputy City Manager Kara Redig reported: - 328 non‑sworn staff and 106 sworn officers trained on DEI‑related topics; 96.1% of the organization received training. - The city again scored 100 on the Municipal Equality Index (LGBTQIA+ inclusion). - New hires: 57% non‑white, 53% female. - Employee diversity ratio (non‑Caucasian): 47%, a consistent five‑year increase. - Initiatives include a second DEI trainer (Ready Set), continued blind‑screen recruitment, mentorship, diversity festivals, and flag‑raising ceremonies (Pride and Wilton Rancheria tribal flags). Councilmembers praised the progress and leadership. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar Approved – Including Item 7.11: the sixth amendment to the Flock Safety ALPR contract was approved without being pulled from consent. The council rejected calls for a delay pending a DOJ audit. - Development Fee Resolution Adopted – The updated schedule took effect with the vote (unanimous). - DEI Update Received – The council accepted the report with commendations; no formal action needed. - Referrals: The housing concern raised by Joey Mai was referred to city staff for follow‑up. - Upcoming Events: City Manager reminded of immigration enforcement listening sessions (April 14, District 56), Pan Dulce Fest (April 12), Family Fun Day (April 18), and used oil filter exchange events.

This was a special meeting of the Elk Grove City Council on March 31, 2026, to hear the annual State of the City Address delivered by Mayor Bobby Singh Allen. The meeting included a land acknowledgement, opening remarks by City Manager Jason Beerman, the mayor's address, and public comments. Public Comments & Testimony - Beth Bourne spoke against the city's recognition of Transgender Day of Visibility, criticizing books in middle schools that she claimed mislead children about biological reality and puberty blockers. She expressed opposition to transgender identity and called for protecting children and women. - Tristan Bazzini, a licensed clinical psychologist and member of the city's Diversity and Inclusion Commission, thanked the city for recognizing Transgender Day of Visibility and affirmed support for transgender residents. He stated that transgender people are part of the community and deserve dignity, respect, and safety. - Casey Mantilla, a transgender woman, shared personal experiences and called for understanding and connection. She emphasized that transgender people are ordinary community members and urged genuine dialogue and acceptance. - Delia Ballwin expressed pride in Elk Grove as a welcoming city and praised the mayor and city council for their leadership on diversity and inclusion. She noted that the Elk Grove Unified School District has also passed a similar resolution. Mayor's Address - Key Announcements - Theme: "Progress with Purpose" – Elk Grove is moving forward with intention, impact, and a clear vision for the future. - Financial Stability: Elk Grove remains financially stable without structural deficits, unlike many surrounding cities, allowing for investments in public safety, infrastructure, and services. - Public Safety: In 2025, officers responded to nearly 100,000 calls for service, reducing overall crime by 2%. Added a commercial enforcement officer and a parking enforcement officer who addressed over 2,800 abandoned vehicles and parking complaints. License plate readers generated alerts on 274 vehicles of interest, with nearly 30% resulting in arrests. Drones cleared 14% of calls without a patrol vehicle and reduced response times by 75%. - Homelessness: The temporary year-round shelter at Cavalry Christian Center served over 100 adults, with 18 moving to permanent housing. A new permanent shelter on Survey Road is planned, with final design later in 2026 and a goal of opening in fall 2028. Homeless encampments citywide reduced by 65% over the past year. - Affordable Housing: In 2025, the city opened 770 new affordable housing units, the most in Elk Grove history. Additional units are planned for 2026, including Phase 2 of the Parties project (139 units) and construction of Coral Blossom Permanent Supportive Housing. - Infrastructure: Over $10 million invested in pavement maintenance, 125 ADA ramps upgraded, and flashing stop signs installed at 21 crosswalks near schools or parks. Construction of the Laguna Creek Trail pedestrian overcrossing at Highway 99 to begin summer 2026. The White Lock Interchange project will be fast-tracked without federal funds. - Transportation: A new seniors ride free pilot program launched with SACRT, the first in the region, allowing Elk Grove seniors (age 62+) to ride bus routes within the city and commuter routes to Sacramento fare-free. - Economic Development: New businesses including Whole Foods, Yard House, Barnes & Noble, and Cattlemen's are coming to Elk Grove. Apple submitted nearly $3 million in facility upgrades at its Laguna Boulevard campus. The Pitch Elk Grove competition awarded $20,000 to local startups. - Community Recognition: On Transgender Day of Visibility, the mayor recognized Dr. Tristan Bazzini and affirmed support for transgender residents. The Wilton Rancheria tribal flag was raised at City Hall in November 2025. Twelve keys to the city were presented to centenarians. Over 2,006 trees were planted, including a silver anniversary grove. A new food distribution partnership with local food banks serves refugee and immigrant populations. - Future Plans: New library on Main Street, improvements to historic district streets, and updates to the city's Climate Action Plan. Key Outcomes - The mayor's address set forth the city's priorities and accomplishments for the past year and outlined upcoming projects. No formal votes were taken during this special meeting. The meeting concluded with public comments.

The Elk Grove City Council held a special meeting on March 25, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. The meeting consisted entirely of a closed session covering labor negotiations, existing litigation, and real property negotiations. The council reconvened in open session at 6:02 p.m. to report actions taken. Closed Session Report - The council voted 5-0 to authorize and direct the City Attorney’s office to defend the cases identified on the agenda: Thi Thanh Quyen Nguyen v. Z Town Entertainment, LLC; City of Elk Grove, et al. (Case No. 26CV002381) and Audrey Bailey v. Elk Grove Unified School District; City of Elk Grove, et al. (Case No. 26CV005225). Key Outcomes - City Council authorized defense of two existing litigation matters with a unanimous 5-0 vote. - No reportable action was taken on the closed session items for labor negotiations (Elk Grove Police Managers Association, Police Officers Association, and unrepresented employees) or real property negotiations (9324 W. Stockton Boulevard and 9327 Office Park Circle properties). - The special meeting adjourned at 6:02 p.m.

The Elk Grove City Council held a regular meeting on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 6:02 PM at City Hall. The meeting included proclamations, public comments, a consent calendar, and several public hearings and information items. Key actions included approving funding recommendations for community development block grants and community service grants, receiving the police department's annual report and ALPR technology update, and launching a senior ride-free pilot program on Elk Grove transit routes. Proclamations & Recognitions - Women History Month (March 2026): The council proclaimed March as Women History Month and recognized RISE Women in Business for their contributions. RISE announced a new training program and a women in business conference in April 2027. - Fair Housing Month (April 2026): The council proclaimed April as Fair Housing Month, celebrating the 58th anniversary of the Federal Fair Housing Act. Project Sentinel's fair housing coordinator highlighted ongoing education and enforcement efforts. - Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month (April 2026): The council proclaimed April as Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month. Speakers from the Elk Grove Parkinson Support Group and Fish for Parkinson's shared personal stories and advocated for research, exercise, diet, and community support. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the consent calendar, which included routine approvals and actions on items 7.1 through 7.9. One speaker (Lynn Wheat) addressed item 7.9, urging the city to use surplus public lands for affordable housing and a permanent homeless shelter. Public Comments & Testimony - Immigration enforcement: Ellen B. requested the city adopt policies to protect residents from ICE raids, including prohibiting ICE on city property and holding publicly noticed community meetings. Staff responded that community meetings on immigration enforcement will be held on April 14, 2026, at District 56, with two sessions (3-5 PM and 6-8 PM). - Homelessness: Armando Cervantes (a homeless resident) shared his struggles with sleep, citations, and lack of safe shelter, appealing for help. - Police funding: Michael Manowski criticized the city's general fund allocation to police (70% of general fund dollars), the purchase of a military assault vehicle, and the use of sonic weapons, calling for demilitarization. - CDBG/CSG grants: Multiple representatives from nonprofits spoke in support of their funding requests, including Goals (special needs), Team Scott Equestrian Foundation (trauma therapy), Meals on Wheels (senior nutrition), Elk Grove Fine Arts Center, X Hope (youth services), Running for Rhett (youth fitness), Musical Mayhem Productions (youth theater), Alchemist CDC (farmers market incentives), Hands and Hooves (equine therapy), Project Sentinel (fair housing), and Center for Land-Based Learning (agricultural education). - ALPR technology: Ellen B. and Jennifer T. expressed concerns about Flock Safety ALPR data sharing with federal agencies, citing violations in other California cities. They requested suspension of the contract, an independent audit, and a public hearing on surveillance technology. Discussion Items 8.1: CDBG and Community Service Grant Funding for FY 2026-27 Staff presented funding recommendations totaling $1,026,617 in CDBG funds (estimated), $587,071 in CSG funds, and $149,545 in Measure E funds for homelessness. After a public hearing, the council unanimously supported staff recommendations. Councilmember Spees recused himself from voting on Running for Rhett due to his spouse's board membership and left the room; the rest of the council approved funding at the recommended level. 8.2: Annexation for 9362 Figer Drive Urban Lot Split The council held two public hearings to annex a residential lot split property into Street Maintenance District No. 1, Zone 3AV and Stormwater Drainage Fee Zone 2. No public comment was offered. Ballot outcomes showed no majority protest; the council unanimously approved both resolutions. 9.1: Police Department ALPR Technology and 2025 Annual Report Andrea Cortez (RTIC Manager) and Chief Bobby Davis presented the ALPR program and annual report. Key statistics: 87 ALPR cameras, 1,548 alerts since 2021 leading to 56 arrests, 5,293 calls for service with 13% resulting in arrests. The department reported a 4.4 out of 5 community satisfaction score. Crime decreased 2% overall; traffic fatalities rose to 10 (from 6 in 2024). Use of force occurred in less than 1% of contacts. The council praised transparency and commitment to de-escalation. In response to public concerns, staff noted they use multi-factor authentication and do not share data with ICE, and offered to invite California DOJ for an independent audit. 9.2: Aquatic Center Annual Report for 2025 Jeff Scanlan reported over 35,000 recreation swim visits, nearly 5,000 swim lesson participants, and over 57,000 lap swim visits. Revenue exceeded $950,000. The city's operating subsidy was $927,000 (7.5% under budget). The facility hosted major regional events. Council noted strong performance and stable subsidy. 9.3: Seniors Ride Free Pilot Program The council considered a pilot program allowing Elk Grove residents aged 62+ to ride free on Elk Grove fixed-route buses (local and commuter) until June 2027 or until $100,000 in funds are expended. The program launches March 30, 2026. Councilmembers (including Mayor who serves on SAC RT board) endorsed it as a way to increase senior mobility and independence. The council unanimously authorized the city manager to execute the agreement with Sacramento Regional Transit. Key Outcomes - Votes: All motions passed unanimously (5-0) except for the recusal on Running for Rhett (4-0). - Approvals: CDBG/CSG funding recommendations approved; annexation resolutions approved; seniors ride free agreement authorized. - Directives: Staff will coordinate community meetings on immigration enforcement (April 14, 2026); Police Department will explore an independent audit by California DOJ of ALPR data sharing; seniors ride free program launches March 30, 2026, with marketing and evaluation. - Next Steps: The draft CDBG annual action plan will be released for public comment April 13–May 13, 2026, with final adoption on May 13, 2026. Meeting adjourned at 9:22 PM.

This was a special meeting of the Elk Grove City Council held on March 11, 2026, at 5:30 PM at City Hall. The council convened in closed session to discuss two pending lawsuits and a performance evaluation of the City Clerk. Following the closed session, the council reconvened in open session at approximately 6:08 PM to report actions taken. Closed Session Report - The council voted 5-0 to authorize and direct the City Attorney's office to defend the cases of Johnny Ortiz v. City of Elk Grove, et al. (Sacramento County Superior Court Case No. 24CV025132) and Tamyaha Brown v. Monterey Trail High School, Elk Grove Unified School District, City of Elk Grove, et al. (Solano County Superior Court Case No. CU26-00315). - No other reportable actions were disclosed regarding the public employee performance evaluation of the City Clerk, which was also listed for closed session. Public Comments - No public comments were made during the open session. Key Outcomes - The council unanimously directed the City Attorney to defend the two identified lawsuits. - The meeting was adjourned at 6:08 PM. Note: The agenda included a closed session item for a public employee performance evaluation (City Clerk), but no reportable action on this item was announced in open session.